LEICESTER chief Nigel Pearson has hit back at claims that Jamie Vardy resorted to foul play last weekend.

Jamie Vardy won a controversial penalty for Leicester against Manchester United last weekend[GETTY]

The Foxes striker won two penalties in the 5-3 victory over Manchester United on Sunday - and it was the first that caused controversy.

Vardy appeared lucky not to give away a foul after knocking Rafael off his stride before going down under a challenge from the United defender.

But Pearson insists he's no cheat.

He said: "There is more scrutiny in the Premier League, there's no doubt about it. If you want to use that word then fine by me. But the officials are there to do their job and they will give penalties as they see fit.

"Jamie won a lot of penalties last year due to his aggression and his pace. Players have to be very careful in terms of contact in the box.

"I think this has been brought up because of the challenge before the first penalty. It's up to the referee to see things, if he sees it is an offence he will give it.

"We need to look at whether we should bring in technology. But I think both were penalties."

Jamie won a lot of penalties last year due to his aggression and his pace

Nigel Pearson

Leicester are at Crystal Palace on Saturday looking to continue their sensational form after wins at Stoke and against Louis van Gaal's side.

Pearson said: "It was a great result but now it is how about how we can negotiate the next game.

"Palace showed last year how effective they can be. It won't be an easy game and we need to get our own performance right.

"The players have been good again this weekend. I don't think you can underplay a result like that. We need to pick the right team and play as well as we can.

"It really is straightforward, we're not approaching this game any differently. It's great to come off the back of a very good win and I'm sure everyone will be interested to see how we deal with this game.

"Eight points maybe exceeds my expectations. It's how things develop over the weeks. Throughout the first few weeks performances have been encouragingly positive."